Gowers has been with reality skein since '02

Particulars behind Gowers’ departure — and whether it’s permanent or a temporary hiatus — were tough to come by over the weekend; when word of Gowers’ departure first surfaced Thursday night, “Idol” was in the middle of a special live broadcast from CBS Television City.

Should Gowers depart, it’s unclear who might replace him, although it’s likely that someone already with the show — such as the show’s technical director — might fill in.

Gowers is well known for directing seminal musicvideos such as Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody.” He’s been with “Idol” since its 2002 launch, earning an Emmy nomination for the show last year.